Raptors grind out Game 4 win over Cavaliers to level series

TORONTO: The Toronto Raptors did not need rhythm to respond in Game 4 of the NBA playoffs. They needed resilience.

On a night where shots refused to fall, Toronto leaned on defense, composure and the energy inside Scotiabank Arena to secure a 93-89 victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers, tying their first-round playoff series at 2-2.

“We just never flinched. We continued guarding and guarding. Whatever it takes, just find a way to win the game,” Raptors head coach Darko Rajakovic said.

Toronto shot just 32 percent from the field and struggled from three-point range, but their defensive intensity kept them within reach throughout.

“Even when on the offensive side we could not make wide open shots or layups, it speaks a lot about the character of the team and the togetherness of this team,” Rajakovic added.

Scottie Barnes, the Raptors forward, led from the front, finishing with 23 points while anchoring the team’s defensive effort and late-game execution.

“I’m just trying to win basketball games and do whatever it takes to go out there and win. Being a winner, making that effort, trying to do more and make an impact — that’s my main focus. How can I win and how can I help someone else?” Barnes said.

“It was great to hear the crowd. The energy was amazing. When there’s that much energy, it obviously boosts us and has an impact on the game,” he added.

His influence extended into the closing moments, where Toronto’s defensive discipline proved decisive.

Rookie forward Collin Murray-Boyles delivered one of the defining plays of the game with a late stop on Donovan Mitchell, sealing a crucial possession.

“I just have the confidence to guard those types of calibre guys. That’s something I wanted to do since I got in the